Reminder of new Vietnamese regulations: Imported IP cameras must meet information security standards starting in 2026

On December 31, 2024, the Vietnamese Ministry of Science and Technology officially released the national technical standard QCVN 135:2024/BTTTT, which sets forth clear information security requirements for surveillance cameras (IP cameras) using Internet Protocol (IP) protocols. The standard will be officially and mandatorily implemented from January 1, 2026. At that time, all IP cameras imported into Vietnam will be required to meet this standard in order to enter the market.

IP cameras are digital video recording devices that transmit data over a network. Unlike traditional analog cameras, they can operate independently without relying on a separate recorder and can directly transmit images to networked terminals such as mobile phones, computers, or storage servers, leading to their increasingly widespread application. However, with the surge in the number of devices, related security issues have become increasingly prominent. According to incomplete statistics, by the end of 2025, Vietnam is expected to have over 20 million surveillance cameras in use, and incidents of personal information and private camera footage leaks are frequent, endangering not only user safety but also posing a serious threat to public order.

To strengthen regulation and improve the overall security of IP camera systems, the Vietnamese Ministry of Science and Technology has formulated this new standard. Manufacturers can also refer to the international standard ETSI TS 103 701 V1.1.1 for self-assessment to ensure product compliance.

The core requirements of the new regulations include:

1. Strengthening basic security protection: Measures such as secure password management, regular software updates, and data communication protection must be implemented to defend against denial-of-service (DoS) attacks and other cybersecurity threats.

2. Strict data and access control: Establish data encryption standards and access management mechanisms to prevent data theft and misuse of personal information, effectively protecting personal privacy.

3. Ensuring transparency and reliability: Enhance product security and trustworthiness through clear monitoring, regular testing, and vulnerability management requirements, strengthening manufacturers' and end-users' confidence in device security.

The regulated product scope covers the following HS codes:

· 8525.83.10

· 8525.83.90

· 8525.89.10

· 8525.89.90 The product description under the above codes is: digital cameras that can connect via the Internet Protocol and are capable of performing some or all monitoring and recording functions.

Important note for manufacturers:

Manufacturers planning to export or sell IP cameras to the Vietnamese market in the near future should closely monitor the developments in this regulation and obtain test reports that comply with QCVN 135:2024/BTTTT requirements in advance to ensure smooth customs clearance and compliant sales in the Vietnamese market.

BTL will continue to monitor the latest regulatory developments in the Vietnamese market and provide related certification consulting and support services. For further information or assistance, please contact BTL Sales Department or International Department for consultation. Thank you~